HUNDREDS of runners are beginning final preparations for the Powderham Castle Run 10k for Cancer Research UK on Sunday, September, 14.

HUNDREDS of runners are beginning final preparations for the Powderham Castle Run 10k for Cancer Research UK on Sunday, September, 14.

Entrants are being urged to be warmed up and on the starting line in plenty of time for the 11am start.

Uniquely, organisers are also encouraging runners and their supporters to use the event for a house clear-out.

Scott Renken, Cancer Research UK's Run 10k organiser, explained: "Running 10k gives people the chance to head into the great outdoors and get a real sense of achievement when they cross the finishing line.

"But with our donation station near the start line, it is also a good way to clear out their homes too and ditch unwanted clothes, books, CDs or DVDs.

"The items will then be sold in Cancer Research UK shops around the Exeter area to help raise additional funds for the charity's life saving work into preventing, diagnosing and treating different forms of cancer."

He says runners could raise an extra £30, on top of sponsorship money, for the charity by dropping off bags at the donation station.

It is still not too late to sign up for the few places still left at the event by visiting www.run10k.org/local online.

This year, Cancer Research UK, supported by Tesco, hopes 50,000 men and women nationwide will Run 10k and raise just over £5 million to help fund the charity's world-class research.